Dr. Christopher E. Fernando

Areas of Expertise: Counseling, University Retention, Career Objectives

Bio:Dr. Christopher Fernando has served in the Office of Access & Academic Enrichment since 1998. He oversees the TRIO Student Support Services program, known on campus as Project Excel. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Biology and his Doctorate in Educational Psychology from the University at Albany. As Coordinator of Project Excel, "Chris," as he is affectionately known by his students, oversees its daily operations while providing academic support services to low income, first generation, and/or disabled students. He also oversees the daily operations of the campus Collegiate Science Technology Entry Program (CSTEP) and Science Technology Entry Program (STEP).

To assist with the administration of the Office of Access & Academic Enrichment and its various satellite programs, Maritza and Chris oversee a dedicated staff of program coordinators, administrative staff, and full counseling and teaching professionals. The counseling staff are trained professionals who provide one on one academic assistance and counseling. The teaching staff consists of five staff members who teach our developmental and high intensity university courses in Mathematics, English, Reading, and Freshmen Year Experience courses.